Cougars Are Regina's Champions

In the words of assistant coach Christin Dickenson, "I wanted the storybook ending!"

It was there for the taking and for 25 minutes it seemed possible. The cougars played with heart and fire, but in the end came up agonizing short of completing the fairytale.

But for a Cougars team that says goodbye to six 5th year players, all is not lost. This team became the Queens of the Queen City...nearly 2500 fans in packed the CKHS, watching from everywhere, including the track upstairs. The ruckus fans erupting with each Cougar basket. Standing ovations were common place on this night that gave everyone a show of true sports desire.

The tears after the loss are hard to watch. Chelsea Cassano, the team's rock in the middle, sobbing openly. Meryl Jordan hugging family members. Jessica Lynch, a ferocious competitor, gathering her teammates together for one last cheer. It's a scene that touches everyone who was blessed to be there.

And while the trophy was not theirs to have, this group of girls are certainly Champions. Not because of their amazing on court performance, but for what they are off the court. The girls are more than accommodating to the media and their fans. There are more smiles than at a dentist's convention. It's the quiet charisma with which they walk the halls.

Head Coach Dave Taylor considers these girls his second family and commented on how "Hindsight will show this to be one of the best Cougar teams ever" after back to back silver medals at Nationals.

So often in sports we measure everything in wins and losses, but the U of R Cougars proved this weekend that you don't need the high score to be crowned winners.

For this reporter, it truly was the best weekend covering sports I've had the pleasure to be a part of. Thank you Cougars.